Hamas-Inspired Rockets, Weaponised Drones Were Being Built For Delhi Attacks

A terror module linked to the November 10 Red Fort suicide car bomb attack was preparing to deploy Hamas-style improvised rockets and weaponised drones to carry out multiple strikes across Delhi, according to details emerging from the investigation.

According to a report by NDTV, officials have found that the group was assembling cheap, fast-moving and highly destructive systems similar to those used by Hamas in conflict zones. These included gliding rockets, precision improvised rockets, rail-launched UAVs and payload-dropping drones, all designed to inflict maximum damage at low cost.

Key Suspect Provided Technical Support

Investigators have arrested Jasir Bilal Wani, also known as Danish, a resident of Jammu and Kashmir. He was caught in Srinagar by an NIA team and is linked to the first arrested suspect, Amir Rashid Ali.

According to the NIA, Danish was providing technical support to the module by modifying drones and attempting to develop rockets ahead of the deadly car bomb blast. Sources said he worked on drones fitted with large batteries, enabling them to carry heavier bombs along with cameras. He also had previous experience in making small weaponised drones.

Hamas-Style Gliding Rockets Under Development

The module had studied and attempted to replicate gliding rockets similar to those used by Hamas. Officials said these rockets:

• Are lightweight and easy to transport
• Can travel up to 25 km
• Can be launched from the ground or even by hand
• Can be fired rapidly - one every 20 seconds, with three launched in a minute
• These rockets cover wide impact areas and function as a low-cost alternative to guided missiles.
• Precision Improvised Rockets

Investigators also found plans for precision improvised rockets launched using pneumatic systems. These rockets:

• Use compressed gas for a stable launch
• Offer controlled, accurate targeting
• Can carry 2 to 50 kg of explosives
• Are suited for medium-range urban attacks
• Rail Launcher and Improvised UAVs

A rail launcher system was being explored to deploy improvised UAVs or gliding projectiles. These UAVs depend on airflow to travel long distances and can carry heavy explosive loads at high speed. Investigators noted that such systems are inexpensive, easy to assemble and allow terrorists to strike from a distance without engaging directly.

Payload-Dropping Drones

The module was also working on payload-dropping drones equipped with mechanisms to release grenades or small bombs. These drones attack from above - the weakest angle of buildings and vehicles - and even small payloads can cause significant destruction.

• Coordination Required, Not a Solo Operation
• Officials said these weapons cannot be built by a single person. The process requires:
• A coordinated team
• Technical knowledge
• Supply chains for materials
• Funding
• Secure communication channels

While some materials are easily available, assembling them into functioning weapons demands expertise.

Potential Impact on National Capital

If these rockets, drones and UAVs had been operationally deployed in Delhi, investigators warn they could have resulted in large-scale destruction, heavy casualties and widespread panic. The plan appeared aimed at executing multiple, rapid attacks in a manner similar to Hamas operations.

Why Terror Groups Prefer These Weapons

Officials said these systems are attractive because they are:

• Cheap and easy to build
• Simple to deploy in large numbers
• Capable of striking from long distances
• Difficult to intercept
• Highly destructive despite low cost
• Often assembled using locally available parts
• This makes them a preferred choice for terror outfits seeking high impact with minimal resources.